Psalm 137: How Can We Sing in a Strange Land

Introduction: Psalm 137 is a saddening and emotional song of lamentation, expressing the deep sorrow and longing of the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. The psalmist vividly captures the pain of being away from their homeland and the anger towards their captors. This psalm serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering our roots and staying true to our faith, even in the face of adversity. It also challenges us to consider the complexities of human emotions, including the desire for justice and the struggle to forgive.

I. Historical Context of Psalm 137 (Psalm 137:1)
Psalm 137 is set during the Babylonian captivity, which took place around 586 B.C. when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and took many Israelites into exile. The psalm reflects the deep longing of the exiles for their homeland and their frustration and anger towards their captors. Cross-references: 2 Kings 25:8-11 describes the destruction of Jerusalem, Lamentations 1:1-3 speaks to the desolation of the city, and Jeremiah 29:1-14 offers a glimpse into the life of the exiles in Babylon.

II. Mourning the Loss of Zion (Psalm 137:1-3)
The psalmist begins by describing the exiles’ grief as they sat by the rivers of Babylon, weeping when they remembered Zion. They hung their harps on the willows, unable to sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land. This imagery evokes a sense of deep sorrow and loss. Cross-references: Deuteronomy 30:1-5 promises the eventual restoration of Israel, Isaiah 66:10-14 comforts those who mourn over Jerusalem, and Revelation 21:1-4 offers a vision of a new Jerusalem, free from sorrow.

III. Refusal to Forget Jerusalem (Psalm 137:4-6)
The psalm takes a turn as the writer vows to never forget Jerusalem, placing it above their highest joy. This section highlights the importance of remembering one’s roots and staying faithful to one’s identity. Cross-references: Deuteronomy 6:5-9 emphasizes the importance of remembering God’s commandments, Proverbs 3:1-3 encourages keeping loyalty and faithfulness close, and Hebrews 11:13-16 speaks of the longing for a heavenly homeland.

IV. Desire for Justice and Retribution (Psalm 137:7-9)
The psalm concludes with a controversial imprecation against the Edomites and Babylonians, asking for retribution for their atrocities. This section grapples with the human desire for justice and the difficulty of forgiveness. Cross-references: Obadiah 1:10-14 addresses Edom’s gloating over Israel’s downfall, Habakkuk 2:6-8 warns of the woe that will come to those who plunder others, and Romans 12:17-21 reminds believers to leave vengeance to God.

Conclusion: Psalm 137 is a powerful expression of the Israelites’ pain and longing during their exile in Babylon. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering our roots and staying true to our faith. While the desire for justice is a natural human emotion, the psalm ultimately challenges us to seek forgiveness and leave vengeance to God. As we reflect on this psalm, may we find comfort in the promise of restoration and the hope of a heavenly homeland.